Adult supervision is required from start to finish while having a recreational fire.

All fires are subject to discontinuance by the Fire or Police Department.

Recreational fires are not intended for disposing of yard debris.

Note: State-issued burning bans do not impact this policy. However, please be mindful that high winds and/or dry conditions require extra attention and safety for even the smallest fire. If in doubt, put it out! Questions about recreational fires can be answered at (952) 953-2600 during regular business hours.

The city prohibits any type of open flame on any balcony, above ground-level, or on any ground-floor patio within 15 feet of a structure where two or more units exist on more than one level. Open flames are prohibited unless each of the separate dwelling units has its own private means of ingress and egress. Fuel storage is also prohibited in such structures.

Electric or gas-fired barbecue grills that are permanently mounted, wired, or plumbed to the building's gas supply or electrical system and maintain a minimum clearance of 18 inches on all sides may be installed on balconies and patios when approved by the fire chief. Please also check with your building management on allowing a mounted unit.

Questions about open flames on multi-family balconies can be answered at (952) 953-2600 during regular business hours.

Yes. The fire marshal has developed a fire safety education program that is incorporated into station tours for guests of all ages. These tours can be scheduled by calling the fire marshal or by requesting a scheduled tour on this website.

First, make absolutely certain that there is no smoke in the area. If you cannot be certain, call 9-1-1 to have a fire truck respond with the monitors and other appropriate equipment they carry to ensure that there is not a smoldering fire.

Detectors that chirp when there is no smoke probably are:

Dirty - Take down your detector and vacuum out the exterior and interior.

Weak - Batteries need to be changed once a year. It is publicly suggested that batteries are changed when daylight saving time begins each year.

Old - Smoke detectors have a general life span of 5-7 years. If your detector is operating improperly and is near that age, it is suggested that it be replaced.

Questions about smoke detectors can be answered at (952) 953-2600 during regular business hours.

The City of Apple Valley does not have staff assigned or available to clear hydrants. Because every home in a neighborhood is protected by every hydrant in the area, we encourage all neighbors to work together to maintain a 3-foot clearance around each hydrant year-round. In the case of multi-family communities (townhomes, condominiums, apartments, etc.), it is the management’s responsibility to ensure that hydrants remain clear and ready for use.

No. Apple Valley city ordinance requires that fire hydrants have a 3-foot clearance around them at all times. You are encouraged to talk with your neighbor about this, or are welcome to contact the Fire Department or Code Enforcement for assistance. Questions about obstructed fire hydrants can be answered at (952) 953-2600 during regular business hours.

The Apple Valley Fire Department does not have the resources to facilitate private parties at our stations. Parents who choose to incorporate a fire safety message into their child’s birthday celebration are welcome to bring the attendees to a scheduled tour as a part of the party, but there cannot be decorations or treats or additional celebratory activities in the stations.

The Apple Valley Fire Department does not have the certified staff to assist with infant car seat installation. The Apple Valley Police Department does have staff that are certified to properly install infant car seats.